Carrying the dream forward: Heidelberg reimagines MLK Jr. Day observance

This year, Heidelberg University embraced a renewed and more reflective approach to honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While past observances centered on a traditional “Day On” with structured programming and service, the University’s decision to observe MLK Day as a day off invited a thoughtful reimagining of how the campus community could engage with Dr. King’s enduring message.

Aaron Nelson, director of Student Affairs, intentionally designed a series of opportunities that met people where they were — offering meaningful ways to honor Dr. King through service, creativity, dialogue, and reflection before, during, and after the official holiday.

Many of the events were offered in a drop-in format, allowing students, faculty, and staff to participate in ways that aligned with their schedules and personal interests. One such opportunity was The Dream Begins: A Pre-MLK Art Experience, during which participants listened together to Dr. King’s iconic I Have a Dream speech and translated their emotional responses into visual art.

“As the speech played, participants reflected on the lines that spoke to their heart and brought their interpretations to canvas,” Aaron shared. The resulting pieces were later showcased in a pop-up gallery, forming a collective visual narrative that honored Dr. King’s words and their continued relevance.

Another experience, The MLK Speech Gala: Voices of the Dream, invited participants to engage with Dr. King’s speeches at their own pace while exploring artwork created during the “Illustrating the Dream” activity, deepening personal connections to his message.

Throughout the week, Heidelberg students, faculty, and staff also participated in organized volunteer opportunities throughout the local community, serving alongside area organizations in the spirit of Dr. King’s call to action and commitment to justice through service.

Perhaps the most moving moment of the week came during a lunchtime performance by Heidelberg’s Concert Choir. Under the direction of Dr. Greg Ramsdell, the Choir performed three selections honoring Dr. King’s dedication to community, service, and hope. The performance, held in Hoernemann Dining Hall, created a powerful space for shared reflection.

Aaron opened the performance with words that resonated deeply across the room. “Today we gather to honor the life, legacy, and enduring dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” he said. “His words called us to justice, his courage called us to action, and his dream still calls us forward today. … The Choir offers their voices in reflection, hope, and commitment to the work that remains.”